Workshops
Due to limited seats, participation in workshops and short courses will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis; therefore, early registration is recommended. Registration starts on January 1st 2026.
“ISRM Commission on Testing Methods”
Some considerations for the development of new ISRM Suggested Methods
To provide a forum for discussion through presentations by invited speakers on some selected new developments about experimental and field studies that could become prospective ISRM Suggested Methods (SMs) in the near future. It is also hoped that this workshop will serve as a platform to initiate and enhance further interests among ISRM members in proposing new SMs, and to better understand the needs and perspectives of practicing engineers and scientists within our society. Read more
Workshop facilitator: Reşat Ulusay | resat@hacettepe.edu.tr
Registration fee: Free.
“Introduction to the Physical Properties of Rocks”
To fully understand and properly calibrate models, information on the physical properties of the rock mass is essential. This half-day short-course introduces you to various physical properties of rocks, with a specific focus on hard rock environments. You’ll learn how these parameters are measured both in situ and in the laboratory, and how this information is applied in mineral exploration, mining and rock construction.
Workshop facilitator: Risto Kiuru | risto.kiuru@rockphysics.fi
Registration fee: Free.
“Combining Field Data-Driven Characterization and Modeling to Enhance Insight in Applied Rock Engineering”
This half-day workshop explores how data-driven approaches improve decision-making in rock engineering. Topics include innovative remote mapping, high-resolution digital rock mass models, and advanced stability analyses for slopes and excavations.
The role of uncertainty in hazard evaluation, effective monitoring system design, and benefits of real-time data collection will be highlighted. The workshop concludes with strategies for calibrating models with field data to enhance safety, efficiency, and long- term value. Read more…
Workshop facilitator: Dr. A. Anıl YUNATCI | ayunatci@geodestek.com
Registration fee: Free.
“Key aspects for the application of the second generation of Eurocode 7 to Rock Engineering”
The workshop “Key Aspects for the Application of the Second Generation of Eurocode 7 to Rock Engineering” offers a comprehensive overview of the forthcoming Eurocode 7 developments and their implications for rock engineering practice. Starting with general concepts, it explores verification approaches through the Partial Factor Method and the Observational Method, including practical applications and examples. The program further addresses the role of National Annexes, tunnelling considerations, and upcoming amendments by the Responsible Expert Panel. Interactive discussions and case illustrations aim to provide participants with both theoretical insights and practical guidance for the effective adoption of EC7-2G in rock engineering.
Workshop facilitator: José Estaire | Jose.Estaire@cedex.es
Registration fee: Free.
“Risks and Reliability in Rock Slope Engineering”
The workshop Risks and Reliability in Rock Slope Engineering will provide an overview of recent advances in the design, evaluation and management of rock slopes with a focus on engineering geological uncertainty. Emphasis is placed on methods for identifying hazards and risk factors, understanding geotechnical variability, and applying reliability-based concepts in analysis, design, and monitoring. Case studies will illustrate practical applications aimed at improving safety and supporting informed engineering decisions.
Workshop facilitator: Neil Bar | neil@geckogeotech.com
Registration fee: Free.
“A practical guide to photogrammetry for rock mass characterization”
Join us for a comprehensive workshop on photogrammetry, a powerful 3D digitalization method for obtaining reliable geometrical measurements from rock surfaces. This course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to generate accurate 3D models from 2D images, assisting in modern site characterization. You will learn the fundamental theory of photogrammetry and master practical workflows for scanning at various scales – from laboratory specimens to entire tunnels and mines. The session includes a comparative overview of essential hardware and software options to guide
your project needs.
We will demonstrate real-world applications, including high-resolution lab sample analysis, data collection with mobile devices, tunnel face mapping, slope photogrammetry with a drone, and the use of 360 cameras. Finally, we will explore advanced methods for remote rock mass characterization that leverage photogrammetry-derived 3D data. This course is ideal for engineers and researchers in rock mechanics, rock engineering, mining, and geology who are ready to master this essential technique for rock mass data collection.
Workshop facilitator: Prof. Lauri Uotinen, Dr. Mateusz Janiszewski, Dr. Masoud Torkan | lauri.uotinen@aalto.fi ; mateusz.janiszewski@aalto.fi ; masoud.torkan@aalto.fi
Registration fee: Free.Prof. Lauri Uotinen is an Assistant Professor of Rock Engineering at Aalto University, where he leads research focused on bridging the gap between theoretical rock mechanics and practical engineering applications. His research interests include the scale dependency of rock joint shear strength and fluid flow in fractured rock masses. Beyond his academic roles, Lauri is a specialist in technical photography, a passion he integrates into his professional work.
His expertise in capturing rock engineering structures makes him a key voice in the application of photogrammetry for rock mass characterization and infrastructure projects.Dr. Mateusz Janiszewski is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Civil Engineering at Aalto University, Finland. His research focuses on 3D reality capture and digital methods for rock engineering and mining applications. With over seven years of experience in applying photogrammetry to rock mass characterization, he combines academic expertise with industry collaboration. He also works part-time as a Rock Mechanics Specialist at Fractuscan, a start-up dedicated to advancing photogrammetry tools for mining and rock engineering.
Dr. Masoud Torkan is a postdoctoral researcher at Aalto University specializing in advanced photogrammetric methods for 3D rock mass modeling and characterization. His research focuses on the geometrical analysis of rough rock fractures, including parameters, such as surface roughness and physical aperture, and the use of photogrammetry-derived 3D models for simulating fluid flow through fractures. His work contributes to the design of safer nuclear waste disposal systems in Finland by improving the understanding of fluid flow and radionuclide transport through fractured rock networks. Dr. Torkan is also a member of the Finnish National Group of the International Society for Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering (ISRM).